LLU Behavioral Medicine Center news
BMC holds graduation for chemical dependency program
 Glennis Knight (left), chemical dependency counselor, and Elaine Coyazo, recreation therapist, chemical dependency program, celebrate the graduation of more than 160 individuals from the LLU Behavorial Medicine Center's chemical dependency program. |
During 2003, more than 160 individuals successfully completed treatment through the chemical dependency program at Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center (BMC). To celebrate this achievement, the BMC hosted a graduation ceremony Sunday, March 7.
This year, the BMC also hosted a barbeque for those attending the graduation. The event provided graduates time to reconnect with each other and the BMC staff. It also gave families an afternoon to relax together and reflect on how their lives have changed.
Approximately 150 people attended the barbeque.
Approximately 350 individuals consisting of graduates, family members, friends, and LLUBMC staff attended commencement. The evening began with a welcome and words of congratulations from Art Earll, director of chemical dependency, and Jill Pollock, executive director of operations for the BMC. Two former patients then shared their experiences at the BMC and what their lives are like now. They expressed sincere gratitude to God, their families, and the BMC staff.
Several graduates also used skits to depict their experiences in therapy sessions such as women's group, men's group, and their interaction with Donald Kurth, MD, medical director for chemical dependency.
The graduates were then presented with a certificate and coin, which was engraved with the phrase "I am a miracle" on one side and the serenity prayer on the other. The serenity prayer, recited in unison during treatment at the chemical dependency program, says, "God, give me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."
While graduates were receiving their awards, family members and friends of each individual were recognized.
The evening closed with the serenity prayer, followed by food and fellowship.
The chemical dependency program is an adult program providing the highest level of care consistent with the guidelines of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). Services endorse the 12-step self-help approach to recovery. The program offers the flexibility of several different levels of care, including inpatient and a variety of outpatient treatment alternatives. The staff is run by a multidisciplinary team of addiction specialists.
Standard services include inpatient medical detoxification, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient treatment. Specialty services include a family program, relapse prevention, dual diagnosis, chronic pain syndrome treatment, sober living accommodations, alumni activities, and aftercare.
For more information on chemical dependency services, call (909) 558-9277.
Intake calls can be made to (909) 558-9224. A 24-hour helpline is also available at (800) 753-5999.
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